However, the 95-year-old Marvel legend's legal team have offered a staunch denial that there was wrongdoing of any kind on Lee's behalf.

Their statement read: "Mr Lee categorically denies these allegations and he fully intends to fight to protect his stellar good name and impeccable character. Mr Lee has not offered any money to settle this claim, and no negotiations have ever occurred regarding any payment to this accuser.

"This accusation is another example of a demand that Mr Lee has received to pay money and threat that if he does not do so, the accuser will hold a press conference and go to the media. Mr Lee will not be extorted or blackmailed, and will pay no money to anyone because he has done absolutely nothing wrong."

Shane Duffy – the chief of Lee's production company POW! – would only respond to these latest allegations by insisting that the company doesn't comment on "personal issues relating to Stan Lee and his life".

Earlier this week, Lee also "categorically denied" totally separate claims that nurses working at his home were groped and propositioned for oral sex while on the job.

Rape Crisis England and Wales works towards the elimination of sexual violence. If you've been affected by the issues raised in this story, you can access more information on their website or by calling the National Rape Crisis Helpline on 0808 802 9999. Rape Crisis Scotland's helpline number is 08088 01 03 02.

Readers in the US are encouraged to contact RAINN, or the National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800-656-4673.